Napoli are closing in on a resolution after weeks of uncertainty and have picked their next starting goalkeeper. Alex Meret is nearing an extension, while David Ospina, whose contract runs out in June, will most likely depart.
According to Gianluca Di Marzio, the Partenopei have decided to trust the Italian shot-stopper, who had lost the battle for the job in 2021/2022. The parties are working towards an agreement till 2027, Corriere dello Sport informs. Instead, the Colombian international has not given an answer to their latest proposal. In any case, he requested a longer and richer deal than the one offered by the club.
After the choice, Napoli will be in the market for a new backup goalkeeper to pair up with Meret. Salvatore Sirigu is currently the leader in the clubhouse. He could be available on a free if Genoa declined their option to prolong his contract. It is likely considering the relegation. However, the Azzurri are also eyeing some foreign veterans, as they did when they signed Ospina a few years ago, Sky informs.
Our Take on Napoli Anointing Meret as Their Starting Goalkeeper
It is a cost-effective move, although the 25-year-old has been rather unreliable in the last couple of seasons. Still, the dualism might have contributed to his struggles. Ospina was the top option for good reasons. With some talented players available this summer, for instance Guglielmo Vicario and Marco Carnesecchi, the Partenopei might be missing out on an opportunity to make an upgrade at the position.